Responsibility and Accountability as a Trainee Solicitor
Since beginning my training contract at Machins, I have been given areas of responsibility across the client matters I’ve worked on to develop the skillset required as a solicitor.
Whilst all trainees are very much supported in their work and given responsibility from an early stage in the training contract, it is also recognised that we are starting out in our legal careers and will need guidance and support on our work too. This balance has helped me throughout each of my training seats, and I have been able to ask for feedback from my supervisors while also being challenged in the tasks I’ve been given.
Even when learning under the supervision of a Partner in the firm, I have been liaising directly with clients on their matters, actively progressing legal matters and assisted with the drafting and preparation of applications, legal correspondence, witness statements and court documents, and I have also attended court hearings and conferences.
Although we are given responsibility from an early stage, it is part of our training to ensure we meet the compliance and conduct standards in the firm as we are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. These standards apply to everybody in the firm and therefore do not only begin from when you qualify. The Code of Conduct for Solicitors also describes the professionalism that the SRA and the public expect from solicitors, and the SRA provides the following principles by which you must act:
- in a way that upholds the constitutional principle of the rule of law, and the proper administration of justice,
- in a way that upholds public trust and confidence in the solicitors’ profession and in legal services provided by authorised persons,
- with independence,
- with honesty,
- with integrity,
- in a way that encourages equality, diversity and inclusion,
- in the best interests of each client.
It is important to attend compulsory firm training sessions about the professional code of conduct and our duties so that you are aware of the standards that you will be held against. Whilst this can be daunting when you first start out, the firm has processes and measures in place to offer support and guidance when needed.
The aim is to be challenged throughout the training contract, to develop both competence and confidence, but never to feel unsupported or unsure where to turn for advice.
My advice is that if you are ever struggling with your workload, how to approach a task or deal with a difficult situation, to speak with your training supervisor, or an experienced colleague for support. As a trainee, this is the time to be learning from your team as much as possible and to make the most of this stage before qualifying!
Explore More Trainee Stories
We have a wide range of trainee articles on our blog that share real insights into life during a training contract. From taking on responsibility early to building confidence in client work, these articles offer practical advice and inspiration for aspiring solicitors. Read our trainee blog articles and learn more about what it’s like to start your legal career.
About the Author
Estella studied law at the University of Nottingham before completing her LPC and Master’s in Law with distinction at the University of Hertfordshire in 2021. She previously worked as a paralegal officer at the Crown Prosecution Service, handling Crown Court cases across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
Disclaimer: General Information Provided Only.
Please note that the contents of this article are intended solely for general information purposes and should not be considered as legal advice.